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Counter Sales Associate

Ferguson · Decatur, IL · $19.62–$27.45 an hour · Full time

Posted Sep 28, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a time you recommended a product that solved a customer's problem better than what they asked for.

What they are checking: Whether they use expertise to help customers make better choices, which grows sales.

How would you build relationships with the regular contractors who come to your counter?

What they are checking: Whether they think about repeat business and loyalty, not just single transactions.

Tell me about a time you made a mistake on an order. How did you fix it?

What they are checking: Whether they correct errors quickly and honestly, which keeps contractor trust.

What would you do

A plumbing contractor comes to the counter needing a part but is not sure of the exact size. How do you help?

What they are checking: Whether they ask the right questions to act as a trusted advisor, not just an order taker.

The counter is lined up at 7 a.m. with contractors who need to get to job sites. How do you handle it?

What they are checking: Whether they work quickly and keep customers moving, since contractors' time is money.

A contractor is angry because an order you quoted is not in stock. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they own the problem and offer real solutions like substitutes or transfers.

How do you balance helping customers with hitting sales goals?

What they are checking: Whether they can sell in a way that serves the customer and the company's sales strategy.

How would you learn a new product line you have never sold before?

What they are checking: Whether they take initiative to build expertise rather than waiting for formal training.

About the work

What plumbing or HVAC products are you most comfortable talking about?

What they are checking: Whether they have the product knowledge the posting says the role is built on.

How do you look up a part if you do not know it?

What they are checking: Whether they use catalogs, systems and coworkers to find answers rather than guessing.

Practice this interview out loud.

Offer builds a real interview for this exact role at Ferguson from your resume and this job description, asks the questions one at a time, and tells you what landed. The first one is free.

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The full job description

As published by Ferguson.

Job Posting: Since 1953, Ferguson has been a source of quality supplies for a variety of industries. Together We Build Better infrastructure, better homes and better businesses. We exist to make our customers’ complex projects simple, successful, and sustainable. We proactively solve problems, adapt and grow to continuously serve our customers, communities and each other. Ferguson, a Fortune 500 company, is proud to provide best-in-class products, service and capabilities across the following industries: Commercial/Mechanical, Facilities Supply, Fire and Fabrication, HVAC, Industrial, Residential Trade, Residential Building and Remodel, Waterworks and Residential Digital Commerce. Ferguson has approximately 36,000 associates across 1,700 locations. Ferguson is a community of proud associates who operate with the shared purpose of building something meaningful. You will build a career that you are proud of, at a company you can believe in. We are seeking a knowledgeable, results-driven Counter Sales Associate to join our team. This role is more than assisting with transactions—it’s about being a trusted advisor to our plumbing and HVAC contractor customers. You will leverage product expertise and problem-solving skills to help customers make informed purchasing decisions that support their business needs while aligning with our company’s sales strategy. The ideal candidate is passionate about building relationships, driving sales, and delivering exceptional service. Schedule: Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm Responsibilities • Engage customers proactively at the counter, on the phone, and via email to understand their needs and recommend solutions. • Serve as a product expert by continuously learning and applying knowledge of plumbing, HVAC and related products to guide customer decisions. • Drive sales growth by identifying opportunities to upsell, cross-sell, and promote strategic products and programs. • Utilize tools and resources (catalogs, computer systems, manufacturer databases) to locate parts and provide accurate, timely information. • Process transactions efficiently while ensuring accuracy and a positive customer experience. • Collaborate with Outside Sales Associates to support account growth and deliver seamless service. • Manage special orders and follow up on order status, back-orders, and delivery timelines to maintain customer satisfaction. • Maintain a professional, organized counter environment that reflects our commitment to quality and service. • Assist with inventory management, cycle counts, and stock organization. • Adhere to all safety regulations, including proper use of PPE (e.g., safety harness with max weight capacity of 400 lbs). Requirements • 1–3 years of experience in customer service or sales; prior experience in plumbing/HVAC or related industry preferred. • Sales mindset with ability to meet goals, build relationships, and influence purchasing decisions. • Strong communication skills for consultative selling and customer engagement. • Self-motivated, results-oriented, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment. • Digital literacy and ability to learn new systems quickly. • Organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities. • Passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences. • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods. At Ferguson, we care for each other. We value our well-being just as much as our hard work. We are committed to a holistic approach towards benefits plans and programs that support the mental, physical and financial well-being of our associates. Our competitive offering not only includes benefits like health, dental, vision, paid time off, life insurance and a 401(k) with a company match, but our associates also enjoy additional meaningful and inclusive enhancements that are adaptable to their diverse situations and needs, including mental health coverage, gender affirming and family building benefits, paid parental leave, associate discounts, community involvement opportunities and more! - Pay Range: - $19.62 - $27.45 - Estimated Ranges displayed are Monthly for Salaried roles OR Hourly for all other roles. - This role is Bonus or Incentive Plan eligible. - Ferguson complies with all wage regulations. The starting wage may be higher in certain locations based on local or state wage requirements. - The Company is an equal opportunity employer as well as a government contractor that shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a), which prohibits discrimination against qualified protected Veterans and the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(A), which prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability. Ferguson Enterprises, LLC. is an equal employment employer F/M/Disability/Vet/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity. Equal Employment Opportunity and Reasonable Accommodation Information

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